Western, English, and Bareback instruction for riders of all levels.
At Ivey Ranch, horseback riding is more than a lesson — it’s a foundation in horsemanship, responsibility, and connection. Our program serves beginning, intermediate, and advanced riders ages 5 and up, with both mounted and ground training included in every session.
Application Status
Download the application packet now so you’re ready to submit when the window opens.
What to Expect
Our lessons cover both mounted riding and ground training, giving students a well-rounded understanding of horse care, safety, and horsemanship. Instruction is available in Western, English, and Bareback disciplines across all experience levels.
All new riders begin with a private, 50-minute evaluation lesson to determine the best placement within our riding calendar.
Fee Schedule
- Evaluation Lesson: $75 (private, required for all new riders)
- Group Lessons: $50 per class, billed monthly
- Semi-Private Lessons: $65 per class, billed monthly
- Private Instruction: $75 per class, billed monthly
How to Enroll
When the application window is open, follow these steps to get started:
Complete the Application
Download and complete the Able-Bodied Horseback Riding Application Packet.
Submit your paperwork
In Person: 110 Rancho del Oro Drive, Oceanside, CA 92057
Email: RidingApplications@iveyranch.com
Fax: 760-722-6598
Schedule your evaluation
Once your paperwork is processed, our office will contact you to schedule your $75 evaluation lesson.
Horse Lease Program
Established riders with 50 or more hours of lesson time at Ivey Ranch may qualify for our partial lease program. Not all lesson horses are available for lease — our administration reviews each application for horse availability and rider compatibility and will respond within 10 business days.
- Two lessons per week and one practice/hack ride per week at Ivey Ranch
- Optional upgrade to private or semi-private lessons based on instructor availability
- Cost: $500 per month, billed month-to-month
- Either party may terminate with two weeks’ written notice
- Riding days are set in advance and cannot be changed without prior approval
- Lease agreements are not in effect during July and August
Frequently Asked Questions
Long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots are required at all times — rain or shine. No sandals. ASTM/SEI certified riding helmets are mandatory. Ivey Ranch provides helmets for students who don’t have their own.
Yes. Each horse has its own weight limit based on factors including age, medical conditions, and rider balance. The table below reflects general guidelines — all final decisions rest with Ivey Ranch management.
Riders over 55 lbs must have adequate trunk control to support themselves sitting upright.
| Height | Independent Riders | Assisted Riders |
|---|---|---|
| Under 5' | Up to 150 lbs | Up to 125 lbs |
| 5' to 5'6" | Up to 200 lbs | Up to 145 lbs |
| 5'7" to 6' | Up to 225 lbs | Up to 165 lbs |
| 6'1" to 6'5" | Up to 250 lbs | Up to 185 lbs |
Lessons are available on weekdays and weekends, scheduled on a month-to-month basis.
The following are observed as no-ride days: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Day After Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
Additional no-ride days for 2026: August 17 – September 11 (Summer Break) and October 9–10 (Ranch Event).
During rainy, stormy, or extreme heat conditions, classes will be cancelled and a credit will be issued. If you’re unsure whether lessons are on, call our weather line at (760) 439-4839 ext. 417. If the message does not specifically say lessons are cancelled, they are not.
If a participant cannot attend a scheduled lesson, please notify the office at least 4 hours in advance by calling (760) 722-4839. Cancellations with less than 4 hours notice are considered a no-show and no credit will be issued. Participants who arrive more than 10 minutes late will not be permitted to participate and no credit will be issued. Weekly riders are allowed one excused absence every other month.
Evaluation lessons are paid prior to the lesson. Monthly fees are due by the first lesson of each month. Fees can be paid by cash or check at the Horse Office, or by credit card through the business office.
Yes. All active participants are required to submit an annual update to keep records current and compliant with safety regulations.
Yes — we welcome volunteers to help support our riding programs. Visit our Equestrian Volunteers page to learn more.
Ready to Ride?
Applications reopen August 1, 2026. Contact us with any questions in the meantime.
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